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Bolívar Coronas Junior, rolled in the Minutos size
Minutos
The Minutos is a classic Cuban vitola de galera, widely referred to by its commercial designation, the Petit Corona. Measuring 110 mm (4 ⅜ inches) with a 42 ring gauge, it is a straight-sided parejo that delivers a concentrated expression of a brand's blend. This format is favoured by experienced smokers seeking a robust experience in a shorter timeframe.
What defines the Minutos?
In the Havana classification system, the vitola de galera denotes the exact factory dimensions, while the vitola de salida is the commercial name printed on the box. The Minutos provides a consistent 42 ring gauge, ensuring a comfortable draw that burns relatively cool for a shorter cigar.
Due to its compact 110 mm length, the combustion zone remains close to the palate. This allows the blend to express its character quickly and with noticeable concentration. A Minutos typically offers a smoking time of 20 to 30 minutes, making it highly practical for modern schedules without compromising on the depth of the tobacco. The parejo shape ensures an even burn, provided it is smoked slowly to prevent the shorter format from overheating.
Which houses produce this size?
Several of the most respected houses in Cuba employ the Minutos vitola for their smaller formats. It is a size that carries heavier, full-bodied tobaccos exceptionally well, as the concentrated format demands robust leaves.
The most prominent examples include the Partagás Shorts and the Bolívar Coronas Junior, both of which have been in regular production since before 1960. The Ramón Allones Small Club Coronas is another historic example from the same era, renowned for its rich and earthy profile.
More recently, San Cristóbal de la Habana adopted the format for El Príncipe, introduced in 1999 as part of the brand's launch portfolio. These cigars offer a genuine reflection of their respective marque's signature style in a fraction of the usual time.
Minutos specifications
Galera name — Detail: Minutos
Common name — Detail: Petit Corona
Ring gauge — Detail: 42
Length (mm) — Detail: 110 mm
Length (inches) — Detail: 4 ⅜ inches
Shape — Detail: Parejo
Typical smoking time — Detail: 20–30 minutes
Buying and ageing Minutos
When acquiring these shorter cigars, verifying provenance through the box code is as crucial as it is for larger formats. The English Market Selection (EMS) stamp remains a reliable indicator of quality and correct storage prior to retail. Should you have concerns about the authenticity of older boxes, consult our guide on how to spot fake Cuban cigars.
Because Minutos pack a considerable amount of flavour in a short space, they can smoke quite sharply when young. Collectors generally find that laying them down for three to five years in a humidor at 65% relative humidity rounds off their edges. This resting period allows the concentrated oils to marry, resulting in a smoother, more balanced draw while maintaining the core strength.
At MokaCigar
We regularly source excellent examples of the Minutos vitola for our clients in the UK, Gulf and Europe. Notable regular production offerings in this format include the Bolivar Coronas Junior and the San Cristobal El Principe. We advise collectors to check our current inventory for boxes displaying desirable factory codes and dates. Should your preferred box be unavailable, please contact us to register your interest for future arrivals.